VASCO
WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar on Thursday said the Maimolem Lake would be beautified and developed under the ‘Amrut Sarovar’ initiative launched by the Centre.
He was speaking to reporters after inspecting the lake in the presence of Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, MMC Chairperson Leo Rodrigues and other staff of the WRD department.
"The ‘Amrut Sarovar’ scheme has been launched and it includes 150 water bodies, 75 each in North and South Goa. Maimolem Lake is one such water body identified in this scheme and all these water bodies will be beautified and developed under this initiative. This will be done within the next year or two,” said Shirodkar.
“We will start with de-weeding in the next 15 days which will be followed by de-silting and finally, launch other amenities for the lake," said Shirodkar.
Shirodkar said the file for the Beautification project of Maimolem Lake was already prepared by the department and that works would begin soon.
"We have instructed the engineer to draw a detailed map of this lake to identify the area which brings in dirty water and also to identify the outward flow channel. We will have another meeting with Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar to discuss how we can prevent the flow of sewage water and also if required, initiate stringent action on people responsible for discharge of sewage in water bodies, which is a criminal offence" said Shirodkar.
Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar said he had requested Shirodkar to take up some development of the Maimolem Lake which has a great potential as a water body.
“This water body, if restored and developed, can provide Vascokars with a great place to visit for recreational purpose or even walking around the periphery as a form of exercise," said Salkar.
"We already have plans in place and we will also approach all stakeholders, including traditional farmers and comunidade body. I don't think anyone will object to the development of this lake which is in a very sad state.”
"I will also have a joint meeting with Shirodkar and all stakeholders, after which the WRD and tourism department will jointly beautify and develop this lake," said Salkar.
